Apple is reportedly planning a major change to its iPhone lineup, with the iPhone 17 Ultra expected to replace the Pro Max variant in 2025.
Highlights
This would mark the first time Apple introduces an “Ultra” model in its smartphone series, a branding previously used for its smartwatches and chipsets.
According to reports from the South Korean blog Naver, citing supply chain sources, the move aims to refine the high-end iPhone experience with hardware enhancements and a redesigned structure.
Design and Material Changes
Leaked CAD renders suggest that the iPhone 17 Ultra will introduce a significant design overhaul, particularly in its rear camera module.
The new design reportedly features a rectangular camera bar extending across the upper body, similar to Google’s Pixel lineup.
This structure is expected to integrate the flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor into a unified module, marking a shift from the separate camera clusters seen in previous models.
Apple is also expected to transition from titanium to an aluminum and glass construction for the iPhone 17 series.
This change is aimed at improving the device’s in-hand feel by creating a smoother transition between the back panel and the frame.
Additionally, the new materials may enhance wireless charging capabilities, though it remains unclear whether this construction will be exclusive to the Ultra model or applied across the entire lineup.
Performance and Hardware Upgrades
The iPhone 17 Ultra is rumored to include several internal upgrades, including:
- Smaller Dynamic Island for a more compact display cutout.
- Advanced vapor chamber cooling system for better thermal management during intensive tasks.
- Larger battery, potentially leading to a slightly thicker build, aimed at extending battery life.
For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to have a 4,685mAh battery, offering up to 33 hours of video playback. The Ultra model could surpass this benchmark, improving battery efficiency and performance stability.
Apple’s Ultra Branding Strategy
Apple’s decision to introduce an Ultra model aligns with its branding approach in other product categories, such as the Apple Watch Ultra, which features enhanced durability and improved performance.
If the iPhone 17 Ultra follows a similar philosophy, it could introduce premium materials, an upgraded camera system, and extended battery life to further differentiate itself from the standard Pro models.
The iPhone 17 Lineup: New Models and Features
Beyond the Ultra model, Apple is expected to introduce incremental upgrades across its entire iPhone 17 lineup:
- High-end models may feature an aluminum frame for a lighter yet durable build, alongside Apple’s A19 Pro chip and 12GB of RAM for improved performance.
- Standard iPhone 17 models may come with A18 or A19 chips and 8GB of RAM, providing a more balanced experience for mainstream users.
- Introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, expected to be a thin and lightweight alternative with some trade-offs, such as a single rear camera, a single speaker, and the standard A19 chip instead of the A19 Pro.
| Specification | iPhone 17 Ultra | iPhone 17 Pro Max | iPhone 17 Air |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness (mm) | 5.5 | 6.0 | 5.2 |
| Display Size (inches) | 6.9 | 6.7 | 6.1 |
| Material | Aluminum/Glass | Titanium | Aluminum/Glass |
| Battery Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 4685 | 4000 |
| Camera Configuration | Unified Rectangular Camera Bar | Multi-Camera Cluster | Single Rear Camera |
Apple’s Expected Timeline
While Apple has not officially confirmed these details, the company typically announces its new iPhones at its annual September event.
If these leaks are accurate, the iPhone 17 Ultra could mark a significant shift in Apple’s smartphone strategy, introducing new design elements, improved hardware, and a more diversified lineup catering to different user needs.
